GENERIC NAME: PEGVISOMANT - INJECTION (peg-VIH-so-mant)

BRAND NAME(S): Somavert

USES: Pegvisomant is used to treat a certain condition called acromegaly. Acromegaly occurs when the body makes too much growth hormone and other natural substances such as insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I). Pegvisomant is usually used if you have not responded to other treatments (such as surgery, radiation, other medications). Treating acromegaly helps reduce the risk of serious problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Pegvisomant works by blocking the action of growth hormone and by reducing the amount of IGF-I to normal levels.